How to Hire a Freelance Book Editor

Authors shouldn’t settle for an inadequate editor to polish up their book. There are thousands of freelance book editors available to hire online. Due to the abundance of individuals to choose from, it can be tricky to find the perfect editor for you and your book. If you want to find an excellent freelance writer, here are 3 steps to follow.

1. Source

The source you access to hire an editor matters just as much as who you end up choosing. Freelance editors often work online, but some still attend their job in person. If you prefer that your editor works online, you must find a platform where digital freelancers work. 

Online Freelancers

There are an array of freelance websites. Freeup, Fiverr, Freelancer, and OnlineJobs are some of the best platforms to check out. There are thousands of people on these sites that specialize in editing. You can post jobs on these sites and wait for freelancers to apply. If you aren’t willing for random people to apply to your job posting, you can reach out to editors. It may take a while, but you have endless options available when finding an online editor. 

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In-person Freelancers

Online freelancers have taken over, but there are still quite a few options when it comes to in-person freelancers. You can explore local businesses, people in your community, and independent writers. The benefit of hiring an in-person editor is that you can work together far more easily. In-person freelancers are less common, but they are still a great option if you prefer them. 

2. Guidelines

After you have decided where you can find an editor, you need to know what guidelines freelancers must be able to meet. What type of editor do you want? What skill level are you looking for? Can they meet your deadlines? These three questions will allow you to create your editor guideline.

Type of Editor

Who your editor is can make a hefty impact on the outcome of their work. Some book editors aren’t familiar with certain genres, so pick one who is comfortable with your content. Personality is also a crucial factor. You likely want an editor who is kind, communicative, determined, and responsible. Therefore, you should ask what skills potential editors have to offer. You can also give them a test to see if they are right for the job. Make sure your editor is the type of person you want to work on your book.

Skill Level

Experience changes the effectiveness an editor has. You may want any skill level of editor depending on your final goal. Beginners can provide a fresh perspective, while experts can curate polished writing. So avoid looking into editors who don’t have the skill level you are searching for.

Meeting Deadlines

Publishing deadlines are scary. Usually, authors have limited time to have their book edited. Ask the editors you are choosing from if they can complete milestones by exact dates. If editors can’t keep up with your schedule, they aren’t a perfect fit.

I covered where to find a freelance editor and how to correctly choose one. Now you are left with selecting the best editor for you and your book. 

3. Selecting Your Editor

This process isn’t easy, but you can pick the right editor as long as you have your guidelines decided. Take time each day to meet new freelancers. Check out as many options as you need to, and don’t settle for less. You’ll know when you found the right editor when they meet all of your expectations. Another part to take into account is pricing. Your editor has to provide fair pricing for the both of you. Finding an agreeable, qualified individual for the job is possible. You’ll soon notice the benefits once you’ve hired an editor.

Benefit of Having an Editor

Editors provide an extra eye to catch mistakes, weird writing, and other errors. Your editor will help you craft the best completed work possible. Without the extra assistance, finishing your novel will be a challenge. The purpose of editors is to elevate the work of an author to the next level. So, if you are contemplating hiring an editor, consider the benefits an editor can bring to your book. 

Next steps:

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Author:

Writer Emily Henry works for Essay Writing Services. She primarily writes about publishing books.